Walk 1 – Kayak and Walk Adventure to Haruru Falls via Waitangi River

Saturday 11th October

Start your journey by catching the ferry from Russell to Paihia. From there, enjoy a scenic walk along the Paihia waterfront to Waitangi Bridge.

Hop into a kayak and paddle up the Waitangi River, immersing yourself in the surrounding mangrove forests. View the local wildlife, including a colony of sea birds nesting in trees along the river. Continue to Haruru Falls—where the waterfall cascades dramatically into the basin below. Here, the fun and adrenaline begin! Even first-timers can safely experience the thrill of paddling at the base of the falls—an unforgettable photo opportunity!

For the entire kayak trip our charter boat will be nearby in case you need a break.

Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable guides will share insights into local flora, fauna, Māori legends, and the area’s rich history.

After the kayak, walk back along the river via the scenic Haruru Falls track. This sheltered trail is perfect for bird-watching and learning more about the region’s history.

The adventure wraps up with a stroll back along the waterfront to Paihia Wharf.

Saturday 11th October

Assemble time: 8.15am

Return HQ: 4pm

Duration:7 hrs (including ferry and kayak)

Distance: 10.6 km walking in total (Haruru Falls track and along the waterfront)

Kayak up the river. Walk back along the track

Grade: Medium fitness level required– no need to have kayaked before as there is a boat nearby if you tire of kayaking and need a ride

Max: 20

Category: Family-friendly – children 10 years plus

Cost: $85 includes a guided walk, ferries and kayak

Book with this link:

IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Please check what is included and the time and length of your walk so you know what you need to bring in terms of food and water. It’s always a good idea to have a card or cash on you as you never know what you might encounter along the way.

2. The Russell Bowling Club is our Walking Weekend HQ, all walks start from there.

3. How the walks are graded

• We want to make sure everyone enjoys their walks. • Please match your level of fitness to your chosen walks to maximise your safety and enjoyment. • It can spoil the day for you and your group if you set out on a walk you have difficulty completing.

Grade 1 Easy Suitable for anyone. Tracks are of a good standard, mainly flat with a few gentle rises, well-formed and very easy walking

Grade 2 Medium Suitable for most people. Flat to hilly on well-formed tracks that are of a medium standard. Surfaces vary with some short steep grades

Grade 3 Medium to Hard Good fitness level required. Tracks are of variable but good quality including more demanding climbs and descents of moderate duration. Can have muddy/slippery stretches after rain

Grade 4 Hard High fitness level required. Tracks variable to rough, with longer distances and steeper sections than Grade 3. Can be muddy/slippery after heavy rain

Visit our website to see all the walks you can do.